BLUE ALLIANCE
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Blue Alliance  Flight of Heroes  
Initial Statement Fall 2012
 
     In 2007, a small clutch of out-and-proud graduates of our United States Air Force Academy began to conceptualize and implement the charter for a support network for lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, and transgender [LGBT] graduates and faculty. The journey of this small, noble group brings us to today – in a post-DADT era where open service is, daily, becoming a reality. 
 
     Throughout this journey, Blue Alliance has witnessed uncountable, quiet acts of heroism and character.  We have seen lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, and questioning [LGBQ] cadets maturely discuss their career needs and those of their growing community.  Graduates and faculty alike were inspired by these demonstrations of character and leadership and committed to recognizing these heroes in our midst on a recurring basis. 
 
     The Board of Directors of Blue Alliance has, therefore, created a recognition:  The Blue Alliance Flight of Heroes into which, each year, we will induct the cadet, alumnus, faculty, or ally who best demonstrates the ideals of courage, leadership, humanity, integrity, accomplishment, and loyalty at the center of our shared experience at or since the Air Force Academy. 
     
We may award one or more awards each year at a Blue Alliance event.  The award itself is an engraved mini plaque and saber. It is our sincere hope that 
Flight of Heroes inductees will serve as the much needed role models for cadets and graduates.  To that end, we will take recommendations for inductees throughout each year.  You may nominate someone for a Flight of Heroes award by sending an e-mail stating rationale to foha@blue-alliance.org 
To view the criteria the Board uses to select inductees, click on the button below.
​
Flight of Heroes Award Criteria

Meet Our Inductees

Dr. Steve Samuels
USAFA Dept. of Behavioral Science and Leadership

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2012​

A true pioneer from the very beginning. One of the most helpful, insightful, and energetic supporters of Blue Alliance. Dr. Samuels was with us before we even had decided on our name. Created Safe Spaces for cadets at USAFA, pre DADT. 

Founding Board Members
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Darrel Slack ('85), Jeff Breininger ('85), Trish Heller ('87), and Greg Mooneyham ('87)

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2013 

Their vision, courage, and commitment to build an Air Force Academy where open service was possible set the foundation for where we are today.

Founding Spectrum Cadets
​Dan Dwyer ('12), Shaina Thompson ('12), and Andrew Jacobs ('12)

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2013

They demonstrated unique courage in the period immediately following the repeal of DADT in founding the LGBTQ  GSA cadet group now known as Spectrum with full Academy support.

Gary Packard ('82)
Permanent Professor and Chair of USAFA Behavioral Sciences and Leadership Dept.

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2014

Another one of our most tireless advocates and trusted resources, Gary was instrumental in developing our relationship and message with staff leadership at the Air Force Academy

William "T." Thompson ('73) and Gary Howe ('69)  
USAFA AOG

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2015

Fundamental to Blue Alliance gaining Affinity Status with the AOG, these men saw the future and were waiting for our arrival.

Gary Howe ('69)
USAFA AOG

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2017

For continued tireless individual effort and longevity in going above and beyond his duties at the AOG

Brig. General Andrew Armacost
USAFA Dean of Faculty

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2018

For his open dialogue, support of  our relationship with USAFA Behavioral Sciences, and his desire to foster the development of all cadets, Andy was always there for Blue Alliance.

Bill Oliver
​
PFLAG Colorado Springs

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2019

Bill has been an Ally/Supporter from the very beginning. Instrumental in advocating for an updated cadet sponsorship program. Key downtown resource for Blue Alliance. Twin brother of  Richard Oliver ('66)
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  • Home
  • About
    • About Us
    • History of Blue Alliance
    • Current Board Bios
  • Current Events
    • Spectrum Talk 29 APR 2021
    • Annual Dinner
  • Follow Us
    • Contact
  • Past Events
  • Donate
  • Membership Reg/Directory
    • Register Here
    • Directory
  • Flight of Heroes Award
  • Our Logo
  • Resources for Cadets
    • Cadet /Jr. Officer Character Atlas
    • Spectrum/Safe Spaces